Dungannon Park parkrun helps keep those resolutions on course

A FEW new faces were welcomed to the running family as the first Dungannon Park parkrun of 2022 was held on Saturday.

The informal and friendly weekly running event, has proved to be a huge success since it started back in 2018. At the weekend, 76 people took on and completed the five kilometre course around Dungannon Park, six of whom were first timers. As always the event was only made possible by the work of 16 volunteers.

Running and exercise is among the top activities cited as New Year’s resolutions. With next Wednesday – January 19 – pinpointed as the day when most resolutions are broken, local experts have a few words of encouragement for those struggling to stay the course.

Lora Casey from HD Fitness in Dungannon said anyone taking up exercise, should start slow and keep realistic expectations.

“New Year’s resolutions are something we want, yet dread every year,” said Lora.

“We tend to promote the ‘less is more’ approach. In terms of physical activity, it’s vital people start slow, decrease expectations and give it time. Cold turkey on your favourite foods, alcohol or chocolates has been proven time and time again to be short lived.

“Keep it simple, do a bit more, or a bit less. The important thing is to do something.”

Lora continued, “With health of more concern now than ever, it’s vitally important to do some form of physical activity. If the gym is not for you. Go for a walk. Anything to make your body work and your mind will thank you for it. In short – lower expectations. Set resolutions that can be achieved to begin with. When you progress you can tailor your goals for more of a challenge. “

Niall Hollywood who runs the Source gym in Cookstown used his social media accounts to reach out those battling to maintain the New Year momentum.

“A message to all the ‘New Year, New You’ brigade – well done for trying,” he said. “Don’t listen to anyone else’s opinions of your efforts. Use this fresh batch of motivation as a springboard for better things for this year. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

“Break down your goal to actionable daily steps. Plan for wobbles along the way. Reassess and re-calibrate as needed but don’t give up.”

Niall added, “If it’s important to you now, it’ll probably still be important in February when your motivation may not be this high.

“You’ve got this.”